A.T. Robertson Commentary 1 Thessalonians 5:13

"and to esteem them exceeding highly in love for their work`s sake. Be at peace among yourselves." — 1 Thessalonians 5:13 (ASV)

And to esteem them (κα ηγεισθα). Get acquainted with them and esteem the leaders. The idlers in Thessalonica had evidently refused to follow their leaders in church activities. We need wise leadership today, but still more wise following. An army of captains and colonels never won a battle.